Pope Francis marked Ash Wednesday inviting the faithful to renew their hope in Christ’s promises and their commitment to follow Him ever more closely.

He was addressing the crowds gathered in St. Peter’s Square for the weekly General Audience.

Pointing out that on Ash Wednesday we enter the liturgical time of Lent, Pope Francis said this time of penitence and mortification is actually a journey of hope as it is directs us on the path towards Resurrection, and help us renew our Baptismal identity.

Today is the day many in Louisiana mark the beginning of Lent with an Ash Wednesday service. Lent follows Louisiana's Carnival season leading up to the Easter celebration. This year, Easter is on Sunday, April 16th.